Elhuyar, aware of the influence that research and the autonomous exercise of children can have on science and technology issues in their capacities, in their future prospects and in the future competitiveness of the region in which they live, has been working since 2014 to launch the network of research centers for young Bizilabe. In this work he was supported by the DFG’s ‘Building the Future’ programme as a first step in the construction of the Bizilabe network in Gipuzkoa.

The Director of Management Strategy of the Provincial Council, Sebas Zurutuzak, has contextualized the Bizilabe project in the Etorkizuna Eraikiz initiative. Among all, the foral project seeks to build the Future of Gipuzkoa. “The strategy is based on an open and collaborative governance model, which aims to involve the organized society of the territory in the response to the challenges of tomorrow,” said the head of staff. He explains that Etorkizuna Eraikiz publishes the call for grants annually and that Bizilabe is one of the “citizen proposals” presented. He adds that the project will have “continuity” because “the vision it proposes is very interesting for us”.

Aitziber Lasa Iglesias, head of ZTIM and Scientific Education of Elhuyar, explained the tour carried out until today in the presentation of the DFG in the Plaza Gipuzkoa of Donostia. As he explained, research shows that the creation of “scientific experiences” among youth is a key piece if we want to enhance STEM vocations in the future, and that in this way the involvement of the local community is fundamental.

Elena Sevillano Peña also participated in the presentation. Elena is a researcher at the UPV/EHU and is part of the Bizilabe research team. With young people, he works in the field of the STEM project in free time and, in his opinion, it is essential “to start from the interests of young people”. The Bizilabe project is clear that among girls there are also scientific and technological references, which will encourage a special approach of female professionals to young people.

At the presentation, the ESO youth from La Salle School in Beasain have also been presenting some of their projects and have explained the opportunities and questions that have arisen. They have highlighted and highlighted the experience lived in the development of the project and have responded affirmatively to the question of whether in the future they look like scientists.

• The project has been supported by the DFG’s ‘Building the Future’ programme and aims to involve regional economic agents in the network of Bizilabe youth research centres in Gipuzkoa
• The objective is to implement actions to promote STEM studies (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) among young people from 10 to 19 years old, following the methodology developed by Elhuyar for Bizilabe
• The program includes a regulated education strategy and a leisure proposal
• The project aims to strengthen the close relationships between young people and STEM professionals in order to increase the scientific experiences of young people and influence the future self-perception of children.